The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Akwa Ibom State has declared an indefinite strike following the alleged assault, arrest, and detention of medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The decision was announced in a communiqué issued after an emergency virtual congress held on Tuesday.
Tension reportedly escalated at the hospital when EFCC operatives arrived in two saloon vehicles and a tinted bus. Witnesses said some of the operatives wore masks, while others were dressed in EFCC-branded jackets.
During the operation, Professor Eyo Ekpe, a cardiothoracic surgeon and deputy chairman of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, was allegedly arrested.
Videos circulating online showed workers, patients, and visitors scrambling for safety after teargas canisters were reportedly discharged within the hospital premises.
Reacting to the incident, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale stated that the operatives were at the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a suspect already in custody over alleged fraud involving several microfinance banks, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank.
Oyewale maintained that the operatives were attacked while carrying out lawful duties, claiming they were pelted with stones during the visit.
However, in a communiqué signed by its state chairman, Aniekan Peter, and secretary, Ighorodje Edesiri, the NMA condemned the incident, describing it as an invasion of the hospital.
The association alleged that Professor Ekpe was physically assaulted, handcuffed, and forcibly taken away by masked operatives. It also claimed that gunshots were fired during the operation and that phones belonging to individuals recording the incident were confiscated.
Describing the development as “barbaric” and a violation of the sanctity of the hospital environment, the NMA announced an immediate and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across the state.
The association stated that it would not engage in any dialogue until all detained members are released.
It also demanded a public apology from the EFCC and called for the prosecution of officers allegedly involved in the operation.
Additionally, the NMA alleged that its state chairman was shoved and exposed to teargas while attempting to seek clarification from the operatives.
The association warned that it would initiate legal action against the EFCC and seek ₦1 billion in damages if its demands are not met.